Vince Young gets a new team

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — The Buffalo Bills have agreed to a one-year contract to sign free agent quarterback Vince Young, providing them an established backup and a bona fide threat in their wildcat formations.

The Bills announced the deal on Friday, a little over a week after 2006 NFL offensive rookie of the year worked out for the team at its facility.

A person familiar with the contract provided the length of the deal, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the Bills do not release those figures. Citing a league source, ESPN.com reported the contract is worth $2 million with another $1 million available in playing-time bonuses.

Listed at 6-foot-5 and 232 pounds, Young has a strong arm and is also presents dual threat as a runner, a combination that has the potential of complementing head coach Chan Gailey’s offensive attack.

General manager Buddy Nix said the addition of Young will create more competition at the backup spot behind starter Ryan Fitzpatrick. Young will compete with returning backup Tyler Thigpen for the No. 2 position.

“He brings with him some unique physical abilities that most are aware of, and that will make the competition interesting,” Nix said. “It’s all about improving our team.”

The move created a buzz in town, overshadowing the start of the team’s three-day rookie minicamp.

Young’s publicist, Denise White, said the player is scheduled to arrive in Buffalo either Sunday evening or Monday morning.

She also released a statement from Young, who said: “Thanks to Buddy Nix and Coach Gailey for giving me the opportunity to come in and play and compete. I am looking forward to playing with the guys and helping where I am needed.”

Young, who turns 29 next week, has been biding his time to determine the next step of his career after he completed his one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles last season. He struggled as Michael Vick’s backup last season, finishing with four touchdowns and nine interceptions in six games, and was sacked eight times in six games, including three starts.

He’s had an up-and-down career since being selected third overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2006 NFL draft. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Titans, but eventually lost his starting job on several occasions in Tennessee before the team ran out of patience with him.

Overall, he has a 31-19 record in 50 career starts, with 8,964 yards passing and 1,459 yards rushing. He’s thrown for 46 touchdowns while throwing 51 interceptions. He also has 12 touchdowns rushing.

For Buffalo, it’s the latest offseason splash made by a team attempting to make a serious bid at becoming competitive and ending a 12-year playoff drought — the NFL’s longest active streak.

The traditionally cost-conscious Bills have been free-spenders this offseason after signing free agent defensive end Mario Williams to a six-year, $100 million contract, the most expensive contract awarded an NFL defensive player. They were also able to re-sign starting receiver Stevie Johnson before he became a free agent. Last week, they also awarded starting running back Fred Jackson a two-year contract extension.

Note: The former UT star and Houston native definitely makes this list below.

<strong>Les Alexander – </strong> Two championships count for something, even if they’re slowly fading from memory. Thanks for the memories, Les.

<strong>Les Alexander – </strong> Two championships count for something, even if they’re slowly fading from memory. Thanks for the memories, Les.

Photo: Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Alan Ashby – </strong> The outstanding catcher (1979-89) of the Astros’ Astrodome era, Ashby is one of 11 MLB catchers to catch three no-hitters, including Mike Scott’s 1986 division clincher. He was an Astros broadcaster from 1998 to 2005. less

<strong>Alan Ashby – </strong> The outstanding catcher (1979-89) of the Astros’ Astrodome era, Ashby is one of 11 MLB catchers to catch three no-hitters, including Mike Scott’s 1986 division clincher. He ... more

Photo: Meg Loucks/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Bob Aspromonte – </strong> Aspro, an original member of the Colt .45s (1962-68), three times in 1962 promised to hit homers for a temporarily blinded young fan. He delivered each time, including a grand slam after the boy regained partial vision. less

<strong>Bob Aspromonte – </strong> Aspro, an original member of the Colt .45s (1962-68), three times in 1962 promised to hit homers for a temporarily blinded young fan. He delivered each time, including a ... more

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<strong>Jeff Bagwell – </strong> Along with Craig Biggio, Bagwell was a charter member of the Astros’ “Killer Bs” and the National League MVP in 1994. He had six straight seasons with 30 homers, 100 runs, 100 RBIs and 100 walks. less

<strong>Jeff Bagwell – </strong> Along with Craig Biggio, Bagwell was a charter member of the Astros’ “Killer Bs” and the National League MVP in 1994. He had six straight seasons with 30 homers, 100 ... more

Photo: Reinhold Matay/For the Chronicle

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<strong>Shane Battier </strong> – A classy, well-spoken, smart, stylish guy. A city can’t have too many Shane Battiers for the kids to look up to.

<strong>Shane Battier </strong> – A classy, well-spoken, smart, stylish guy. A city can’t have too many Shane Battiers for the kids to look up to.

Photo: James Nielsen/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Lance Berkman – </strong> Agile, athletic, sleek (in his own words, at least) … and still, even after winning a World Series ring with the Cardinals, one of Houston’s favorites after a productive decade (1999-2010) with the Astros. less

<strong>Lance Berkman – </strong> Agile, athletic, sleek (in his own words, at least) … and still, even after winning a World Series ring with the Cardinals, one of Houston’s favorites after a productive ... more

Photo: James Nielsen/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Elvin Bethea </strong> – The consummate warrior, the Hall-of-Famer spent 16 seasons battling – and sometimes grumbling - in the trenches for the Oilers, but he gave his all for a couple of near-great teams and a few horrible ones, too. less

<strong>Elvin Bethea </strong> – The consummate warrior, the Hall-of-Famer spent 16 seasons battling – and sometimes grumbling - in the trenches for the Oilers, but he gave his all for a couple of ... more

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<strong>Craig Biggio – </strong> An Astros lifer (1998-2007) who holds records in eight major categories, he has 3,060 career hits, a statue outside Minute Maid Park and, Astros fans hope, a Hall of Fame plaque in 2013. less

<strong>Craig Biggio – </strong> An Astros lifer (1998-2007) who holds records in eight major categories, he has 3,060 career hits, a statue outside Minute Maid Park and, Astros fans hope, a Hall of Fame ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Earl Campbell – </strong> Hercules in a helmet, the Tyler Rose won the Heisman as a Horn, then flowered even more brilliantly as an Oiler. No Earl, no Luv ya Blue.

<strong>Earl Campbell – </strong> Hercules in a helmet, the Tyler Rose won the Heisman as a Horn, then flowered even more brilliantly as an Oiler. No Earl, no Luv ya Blue.

Photo: Geary Broadnax/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Don Chaney - </strong>"The Duck" played beside Elvin Hayes as a Cougar, won accolades as a heady Celtics role player, then returned to take the Rockets' reigns. He didn't win, but we forgave him because he's one of the all-time good guys. less

<strong>Don Chaney - </strong>"The Duck" played beside Elvin Hayes as a Cougar, won accolades as a heady Celtics role player, then returned to take the Rockets' reigns. He didn't win, but we forgave him ... more

Photo: Aaron M. Sprecher/ For the Chronicle

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<strong>Brian Ching – </strong> Ching came to Houston in 2006 with the San Jose Earthquakes and led the renamed Dynamo to MLS Cup titles in 2006-07. Lost in the 2012 expansion draft, he took a $200,000 pay cut to rejoin the Dynamo this spring. less

<strong>Brian Ching – </strong> Ching came to Houston in 2006 with the San Jose Earthquakes and led the renamed Dynamo to MLS Cup titles in 2006-07. Lost in the 2012 expansion draft, he took a $200,000 pay ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Roger Clemens – </strong> Is there a more polarizing figure in sports? Arguably the greatest right-hander in modern history, he boosted his hometown Astros to the 2004-05 playoffs but dealt with steroid allegations after his playing career ended. less

<strong>Roger Clemens – </strong> Is there a more polarizing figure in sports? Arguably the greatest right-hander in modern history, he boosted his hometown Astros to the 2004-05 playoffs but dealt with ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Cynthia Cooper – </strong> The Michael Jordan of the WNBA, she could light up anybody and on any given night. Behind her the Comets, RIP, became our longest-running sports dynasty.

<strong>Cynthia Cooper – </strong> The Michael Jordan of the WNBA, she could light up anybody and on any given night. Behind her the Comets, RIP, became our longest-running sports dynasty.

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Fred Couples – </strong> A member of Dave Williams’ golf team at the University of Houston, he became a Masters champion (1992), the first UH alumnus to win the Shell Houston Open (2003) and a Champions Tour winner at The Woodlands (2010). less

<strong>Fred Couples – </strong> A member of Dave Williams’ golf team at the University of Houston, he became a Masters champion (1992), the first UH alumnus to win the Shell Houston Open (2003) and a ... more

Photo: Getty

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<strong>Jose Cruz – </strong> Jose “Cruuuuzzzzzz,” as introduced by the late Astrodome PA announcer J. Fred Duckett, played 13 of 19 (1975-87) big league seasons in Houston and has been a part of every Astros playoff season as a player or coach. less

<strong>Jose Cruz – </strong> Jose “Cruuuuzzzzzz,” as introduced by the late Astrodome PA announcer J. Fred Duckett, played 13 of 19 (1975-87) big league seasons in Houston and has been a part of every ... more

Photo: Julio Cortez/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Jimmy Demaret – </strong> A legendary bon vivant, Demaret (1910-1983) also could play golf with the best of them. He was the first three-time Masters champion, helped launch the senior tour and, with Jackie Burke, founded Champions Golf Club. less

<strong>Jimmy Demaret – </strong> A legendary bon vivant, Demaret (1910-1983) also could play golf with the best of them. He was the first three-time Masters champion, helped launch the senior tour and, with ... more

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<strong>Larry Dierker – </strong> He debuted in 1964 on his 18th birthday, striking out Willie Mays, and is in his fifth decade with the Astros as player (1964-76), broadcaster (1979-96, 2004-5), manager (1997-2001) and good will ambassador. less

<strong>Larry Dierker – </strong> He debuted in 1964 on his 18th birthday, striking out Willie Mays, and is in his fifth decade with the Astros as player (1964-76), broadcaster (1979-96, 2004-5), manager ... more

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<strong>Mike Dunleavy – </strong> An over-achiever on the court who had a long career as a player, coach and general manager, older Rockets fans still remember him as the “Chicken Man.” Five times over a three-year period he scored the 135th point in a game that won all the fans in attendance a box of free fried chicken. less

<strong>Mike Dunleavy – </strong> An over-achiever on the court who had a long career as a player, coach and general manager, older Rockets fans still remember him as the “Chicken Man.” Five times over a ... more

Photo: David Phillip/Associated Press

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<strong>Clyde Drexler – </strong> Reared in Houston, Clyde the Glide was cruelly deprived of a national championship as Phi Slama Jama’s frat-house president, but he gained redemption – personal and civic – years later by helping the Rockets defend their NBA title. less

<strong>Clyde Drexler – </strong> Reared in Houston, Clyde the Glide was cruelly deprived of a national championship as Phi Slama Jama’s frat-house president, but he gained redemption – personal and ... more

<strong>George Foreman – </strong> As puncher, preacher, family man and marketing pitchman, no Houston sports figure is larger than life like Big George. His biggest moment was winning back the world heavyweight title in 1994 at age 45. less

<strong>George Foreman – </strong> As puncher, preacher, family man and marketing pitchman, no Houston sports figure is larger than life like Big George. His biggest moment was winning back the world ... more

Photo: Amy Sancetta/AP

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<strong>Arian Foster – </strong> Earl Campbell redux? Could be. If the Texans are going anywhere, they’ll be following Foster, the bargain free agent of the century. And the man’s a poet to boot. Helluva dresser, too. less

<strong>Arian Foster – </strong> Earl Campbell redux? Could be. If the Texans are going anywhere, they’ll be following Foster, the bargain free agent of the century. And the man’s a poet to boot. ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>A.J. Foyt – </strong> “Super Tex” got his start at Houston’s Playland Park, but his home track was the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he won four Indy 500s. He’s the only man to win Indy, the Daytona 500 and the 24 Hours of LeMans. less

<strong>A.J. Foyt – </strong> “Super Tex” got his start at Houston’s Playland Park, but his home track was the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he won four Indy 500s. He’s the only man to win Indy, ... more

Photo: Michael Conroy/AP

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<strong>Zina Garrison – </strong> She picked up tennis at MacGregor Park, and the game took her to two Olympic medals, 34 professional championships and a berth in the 1990 Wimbledon singles finals against Martina Navratilova. less

<strong>Zina Garrison – </strong> She picked up tennis at MacGregor Park, and the game took her to two Olympic medals, 34 professional championships and a berth in the 1990 Wimbledon singles finals against ... more

Photo: Richard Drew/AP

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<strong>Ernest Givins – </strong> The spindly little guy could get open, and he could catch, too. He became Warren Moon’s go-to guy when a play had to be made.

<strong>Ernest Givins – </strong> The spindly little guy could get open, and he could catch, too. He became Warren Moon’s go-to guy when a play had to be made.

Photo: Dave Einsel/Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Wayne Graham– </strong> He played for Casey Stengel’s Mets, wears Stengel’s number 37 and, in his mid-70s, is this century’s Old Perfessor, with five national JC titles at San Jacinto and the 2003 College World Series title at Rice. less

<strong>Wayne Graham– </strong> He played for Casey Stengel’s Mets, wears Stengel’s number 37 and, in his mid-70s, is this century’s Old Perfessor, with five national JC titles at San Jacinto and the ... more

Photo: Thomas B. Shea/ For the Chronicle

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<strong>Kenneth Hall – </strong> Haven’t heard of him? Well, pay attention. He averaged nearly five touchdowns per game for Sugar Land High School in the early 1950s and ran for 11,232 yards in four seasons. That’s still the national high school record. That’s sick. less

<strong>Kenneth Hall – </strong> Haven’t heard of him? Well, pay attention. He averaged nearly five touchdowns per game for Sugar Land High School in the early 1950s and ran for 11,232 yards in four ... more

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<strong>Elvin Hayes – </strong> The Big EEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Not only did he take down mighty UCLA in the Astrodome in the game that invented college basketball, his presence with the San Diego Rockets was why they became the Houston Rockets. less

<strong>Elvin Hayes – </strong> The Big EEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Not only did he take down mighty UCLA in the Astrodome in the game that invented college basketball, his presence with the San Diego Rockets was why ... more

Photo: Ben DeSoto/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Solly Hemus – </strong> The “Little Pepper Pot” helped carry the 1947 Buffs to the Dixie Series title. He played 11 years in the majors, briefly managed the Cardinals and remains, in his 80s, a fan of Houston major league baseball. less

<strong>Solly Hemus – </strong> The “Little Pepper Pot” helped carry the 1947 Buffs to the Dixie Series title. He played 11 years in the majors, briefly managed the Cardinals and remains, in his 80s, a ... more

Photo: Ben DeSoto/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Roy Hofheinz – </strong> Legislator, county judge, mayor and visionary, the Judge helped bring big league baseball to Houston and envisioned and built the Astrodome, which still stands as a monument to his ambition and imagination. less

<strong>Roy Hofheinz – </strong> Legislator, county judge, mayor and visionary, the Judge helped bring big league baseball to Houston and envisioned and built the Astrodome, which still stands as a monument ... more

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<strong>Robert Horry – </strong> You win championships with guys like Horry, too. The Rockets’ quiet assassin never missed a trey when one was needed to save the day.

<strong>Robert Horry – </strong> You win championships with guys like Horry, too. The Rockets’ quiet assassin never missed a trey when one was needed to save the day.

Photo: Howard Castleberry/Chronicle file

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<strong>Ken Houston – </strong> How the Oilers could have ever traded him to Washington will always remain a mystery, but the Hall of Famer came home to coach and, later, work in the public schools. Houston should be very proud of its namesake. less

<strong>Ken Houston – </strong> How the Oilers could have ever traded him to Washington will always remain a mystery, but the Hall of Famer came home to coach and, later, work in the public schools. Houston ... more

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<strong>Gordie Howe – </strong> You had to be here to have appreciated how special it was to have Mr. Hockey skating on Houston ice for the original Aeros. Picture Babe Ruth coming out of retirement to lead the Astros to a couple World Series. Howe was the WHA’s MVP at 46. Unreal. less

<strong>Gordie Howe – </strong> You had to be here to have appreciated how special it was to have Mr. Hockey skating on Houston ice for the original Aeros. Picture Babe Ruth coming out of retirement to lead ... more

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<strong>Andre Johnson – </strong> If justice is served, ‘Dre will play in a Super Bowl for the Texans before he’s done. He remains the face of the franchise, a couple of hamstring pulls last fall notwithstanding. less

<strong>Andre Johnson – </strong> If justice is served, ‘Dre will play in a Super Bowl for the Texans before he’s done. He remains the face of the franchise, a couple of hamstring pulls last fall ... more

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Billy "White Shoes" Johnson –</strong> The most electrifying return man ever seen in these parts, Shoes was a threat to go the distance every time he touched the football. His wobbly knees end-zone dance was icing on the cake. less

<strong>Billy "White Shoes" Johnson –</strong> The most electrifying return man ever seen in these parts, Shoes was a threat to go the distance every time he touched the football. His wobbly knees end-zone ... more

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<strong>Bela Karolyi – </strong> As is the case with his most famous pupils, Nadia and Mary Lou, everyone who follows gymnastics is on a first-name basis with the veteran coach, who still oversees USA Gymnastics’ training center near New Waverly. less

<strong>Bela Karolyi – </strong> As is the case with his most famous pupils, Nadia and Mary Lou, everyone who follows gymnastics is on a first-name basis with the veteran coach, who still oversees USA ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Case Keenum – </strong> One game doesn’t ruin this young man’s legacy. He had an amazing run at Robertson Stadium. Just hope he doesn’t come back now and mess with the Texans.

<strong>Case Keenum – </strong> One game doesn’t ruin this young man’s legacy. He had an amazing run at Robertson Stadium. Just hope he doesn’t come back now and mess with the Texans.

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Charlie Kerfeld – </strong> His Conehead routine in 1986 was helped considerably by his 11-2 record and 2.69 ERA as the Astros’ (1985-90) bullpen setup man. No. 37 signed in 1987 for $110,037.37 and 37 boxes of orange Jell-O. Yes, really. less

<strong>Charlie Kerfeld – </strong> His Conehead routine in 1986 was helped considerably by his 11-2 record and 2.69 ERA as the Astros’ (1985-90) bullpen setup man. No. 37 signed in 1987 for $110,037.37 ... more

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<strong>Gary Kubiak –</strong> People forget he was a superstar in football and basketball in junior high school, then tore it up at St. Pius X before becoming an Aggie. There are homeys and then there’s Kubes, in a league of his own as the only Houstonian ever to return to coach one of our major pro teams. less

<strong>Gary Kubiak –</strong> People forget he was a superstar in football and basketball in junior high school, then tore it up at St. Pius X before becoming an Aggie. There are homeys and then there’s ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Tara Lipinski – </strong> This modern-day Sugar Land Express trained briefly at the Galleria ice rink, perfected her craft in Detroit and won the 1998 ladies figure skating gold medal at age 15, the youngest Olympic champion ever. less

<strong>Tara Lipinski – </strong> This modern-day Sugar Land Express trained briefly at the Galleria ice rink, perfected her craft in Detroit and won the 1998 ladies figure skating gold medal at age 15, the ... more

Photo: Amy Sancetta/AP

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<strong>Carl Lewis – </strong> Please don’t ask him to sing, but don’t ever question the credentials of this University of Houston alumnus as the greatest track and field athlete in Olympic history (nine gold medals, one bronze). less

<strong>Carl Lewis – </strong> Please don’t ask him to sing, but don’t ever question the credentials of this University of Houston alumnus as the greatest track and field athlete in Olympic history (nine ... more

Photo: Lynne Sladky/AP

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<strong>Guy V. Lewis –</strong> He’s been retired for a quarter century, but you still can’t think about Houston Cougar basketball and not picture Guy V. tossing his polka-dot towel in the air after a win. A true visionary, he put Houston on the basketball map. less

<strong>Guy V. Lewis –</strong> He’s been retired for a quarter century, but you still can’t think about Houston Cougar basketball and not picture Guy V. tossing his polka-dot towel in the air after a ... more

Photo: Chronicle file

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<strong>Dicky Maegle –</strong> He so frustrated Alabama in Rice’s victorious ’54 Cotton Bowl victory, Tommy Lewis left the Tide bench and tackled him without a helmet. A legend was born that day. less

<strong>Dicky Maegle –</strong> He so frustrated Alabama in Rice’s victorious ’54 Cotton Bowl victory, Tommy Lewis left the Tide bench and tackled him without a helmet. A legend was born that ... more

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<strong>Moses Malone –</strong> Like too many of our heroes, he had to leave town to get a championship. But Mo gave his all to the Rockets, leading them to one improbable NBA Finals, then tutored a young Hakeem Olajuwon at the Fonde gym. We’re grateful for both. less

<strong>Moses Malone –</strong> Like too many of our heroes, he had to leave town to get a championship. But Mo gave his all to the Rockets, leading them to one improbable NBA Finals, then tutored a young ... more

Photo: Steve Ueckert/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Slater Martin – </strong> “Dugie” led Davis to state high school basketball titles in 1942 and 1943, took Texas to the NCAA Final Four in 1947 and was a member of the NBA’s first dynasty with the 1950s Minneapolis Lakers. less

<strong>Slater Martin – </strong> “Dugie” led Davis to state high school basketball titles in 1942 and 1943, took Texas to the NCAA Final Four in 1947 and was a member of the NBA’s first dynasty with ... more

<strong>Bruce Matthews – </strong> True, he went over to the dark side when he joined his buddy Mike Munchak back in Nashville, but that’s OK. This NFL marathon man and Hall-of-Famer will always be thought up as one of the good guys. less

<strong>Bruce Matthews – </strong> True, he went over to the dark side when he joined his buddy Mike Munchak back in Nashville, but that’s OK. This NFL marathon man and Hall-of-Famer will always be thought ... more

Photo: Howard Castleberry/Chronicle file

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<strong>Drayton McLane – </strong> The billionaire grocer from Temple had his critics as the Astros faded to 56-106 in 2011, but he presided over the most successful period in franchise history and helped make Houston baseball a downtown sport. less

<strong>Drayton McLane – </strong> The billionaire grocer from Temple had his critics as the Astros faded to 56-106 in 2011, but he presided over the most successful period in franchise history and helped ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Bob McNair –</strong> What a blessing it was that Bob had a billion bucks lying around when there was a football franchise to be had. The NFL didn’t want to return to Houston, but McNair gave the league no choice. They couldn’t raise the ante high enough to thwart him. He’s a classy owner who deserves to be rewarded with a championship. less

<strong>Bob McNair –</strong> What a blessing it was that Bob had a billion bucks lying around when there was a football franchise to be had. The NFL didn’t want to return to Houston, but McNair gave the ... more

Photo: Michael Paulsen/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Yao Ming – </strong> A wonderful guy and a near-great player whose super-sized body betrayed him, Yao left a permanent mark on Houston. Maybe China will send him back one day to serve as consul general. less

<strong>Yao Ming – </strong> A wonderful guy and a near-great player whose super-sized body betrayed him, Yao left a permanent mark on Houston. Maybe China will send him back one day to serve as consul ... more

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Warren Moon – </strong> At the time he was playing perhaps we didn’t appreciate him enough, but so many lean years since have changed our perspective. Moon’s Oilers tenure was loads of fun, even if he failed to deliver a Super Bowl or two. less

<strong>Warren Moon – </strong> At the time he was playing perhaps we didn’t appreciate him enough, but so many lean years since have changed our perspective. Moon’s Oilers tenure was loads of fun, even ... more

Photo: Dave Einsel/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Mike Munchak –</strong> Can we forgive him for taking the Titans’ job. We’ll see. Should we? Yes. Like Bruce Matthews, he gave everything he had for the Oilers.

<strong>Mike Munchak –</strong> Can we forgive him for taking the Titans’ job. We’ll see. Should we? Yes. Like Bruce Matthews, he gave everything he had for the Oilers.

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<strong>Calvin Murphy –</strong> Some public laundering of his dirty laundry tarnished Murphy’s image, but the little guy sure was fun to watch play basketball.

<strong>Calvin Murphy –</strong> Some public laundering of his dirty laundry tarnished Murphy’s image, but the little guy sure was fun to watch play basketball.

Photo: Larry Reese/Chronicle file

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<strong>Jess Neely –</strong> We have Neely to thank for Rice Stadium. Houston was a different place back when he coached the Owls, but his body of work speaks for itself.

<strong>Jess Neely –</strong> We have Neely to thank for Rice Stadium. Houston was a different place back when he coached the Owls, but his body of work speaks for itself.

Photo: Sam Pierson/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Hakeem Olajuwon – </strong> The greatest ever to wear Houston’s colors? It’s him or Earl Campbell, and Dream did deliver two NBA titles. That’s the tiebreaker.

<strong>Hakeem Olajuwon – </strong> The greatest ever to wear Houston’s colors? It’s him or Earl Campbell, and Dream did deliver two NBA titles. That’s the tiebreaker.

Photo: Dave Einsel/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Roy Oswalt – </strong> The whippet from Weir, Miss., was a 20-win bulldozer for the 2004-2005 Astros playoff teams. His 143-82 record (2001-10) was one short of the franchise mark for career wins when he was traded to the Phillies. less

<strong>Roy Oswalt – </strong> The whippet from Weir, Miss., was a 20-win bulldozer for the 2004-2005 Astros playoff teams. His 143-82 record (2001-10) was one short of the franchise mark for career wins ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Jack Pardee –</strong> He beat cancer, but he couldn’t beat Buffalo. He was such a good guy the latter no longer seems all that important.

<strong>Jack Pardee –</strong> He beat cancer, but he couldn’t beat Buffalo. He was such a good guy the latter no longer seems all that important.

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<strong>Dan Pastorini – </strong> The man Carl Mauck called “the fancy passin’ Dago,” was the Oilers’ starting quarterback in AFC Championship Games and, off the field, he was always an adventure waiting to happen. less

<strong>Dan Pastorini – </strong> The man Carl Mauck called “the fancy passin’ Dago,” was the Oilers’ starting quarterback in AFC Championship Games and, off the field, he was always an adventure ... more

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<strong>Bum Phillips –</strong> O.A. Phillips was the face of our city. Other than Sam Houston himself, there might not be a more iconic hero.

<strong>Bum Phillips –</strong> O.A. Phillips was the face of our city. Other than Sam Houston himself, there might not be a more iconic hero.

Photo: Sam Pierson Jr./ Chronicle file

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<strong>Wade Phillips –</strong> The proverbial acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree. He returned last fall and delivered what might have been the best coaching job ever seen in these parts when he resurrected the Texans’ sad-sack defense. less

<strong>Wade Phillips –</strong> The proverbial acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree. He returned last fall and delivered what might have been the best coaching job ever seen in these parts when he ... more

Photo: James Nielsen/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Doug Rader – </strong> The Red Rooster was a Hall of Fame prankster (“Eat bubble gum cards,” he advised young players. “They have good information”) but also a fierce competitor and five-time Gold Glove winner (1967-75) for the Astros. less

<strong>Doug Rader – </strong> The Red Rooster was a Hall of Fame prankster (“Eat bubble gum cards,” he advised young players. “They have good information”) but also a fierce competitor and five-time ... more

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<strong>Mary Lou Retton – </strong> Three decades after her gymnastics all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics, Retton still beams at you each morning from Wheaties boxes as the epitome of power, precision and sheer exuberance. less

<strong>Mary Lou Retton – </strong> Three decades after her gymnastics all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics, Retton still beams at you each morning from Wheaties boxes as the epitome of power, ... more

Photo: Robert Seale/ For the Chronicle

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<strong>J.R. Richard – </strong> Fans recall what could have been but still honor what J.R. did: 1,493 strikeouts in 1,606 innings, including 313 Ks in 1979. Before ill health ended his Astros career (1971-81), he was monumentally unhittable. less

<strong>J.R. Richard – </strong> Fans recall what could have been but still honor what J.R. did: 1,493 strikeouts in 1,606 innings, including 313 Ks in 1979. Before ill health ended his Astros career ... more

Photo: Mike Robinson/Chronicle file

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<strong>Terry Ruskowski – </strong> The only North American hockey player to captain four pro clubs alongside an old Gordie Howe and a young Mario Lemieux, he got his start with the WHA Aeros in the 1970s. He also coached the IHL Aeros in the ‘90s. less

<strong>Terry Ruskowski – </strong> The only North American hockey player to captain four pro clubs alongside an old Gordie Howe and a young Mario Lemieux, he got his start with the WHA Aeros in the 1970s. ... more

Photo: handout

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<strong>Nolan Ryan – </strong> One of Houston’s holy trinity to wear jersey number 34, the Alvin Express threw his fifth no-hitter and broke the MLB career strikeout record for his hometown team (1980-88). less

<strong>Nolan Ryan – </strong> One of Houston’s holy trinity to wear jersey number 34, the Alvin Express threw his fifth no-hitter and broke the MLB career strikeout record for his hometown team ... more

Photo: Karla Stolleis/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Mike Scott – </strong> Did he scuff the ball? Astros fans don’t care. He was 110-81 from 1983-91, and his division-clinching no-hitter in 1986 remains arguably the greatest moment in franchise history. less

<strong>Mike Scott – </strong> Did he scuff the ball? Astros fans don’t care. He was 110-81 from 1983-91, and his division-clinching no-hitter in 1986 remains arguably the greatest moment in franchise ... more

Photo: Tim Johnson/AP

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<strong>Sheryl Swoopes – </strong> A dominant player on Texas Tech’s 1993 NCAA championship team, Swoopes was twice the WNBA’s MVP and defensive player of the year in the same season and played on four championship teams with the Comets. less

<strong>Sheryl Swoopes – </strong> A dominant player on Texas Tech’s 1993 NCAA championship team, Swoopes was twice the WNBA’s MVP and defensive player of the year in the same season and played on four ... more

Photo: Christobal Perez/Chronicle file

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<strong>Tina Thompson – </strong> One of the Comets’ Big Three that won the first four WNBA championships, Thompson has won two Olympic gold medals (2004 and 2008) and is the WNBA’s career scoring leader. less

<strong>Tina Thompson – </strong> One of the Comets’ Big Three that won the first four WNBA championships, Thompson has won two Olympic gold medals (2004 and 2008) and is the WNBA’s career scoring ... more

Photo: Steve Ueckert/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Rudy Tomjanovich – </strong>Belongs on the same plane as Bum. Hamtrmak claims him, but so do we.

<strong>Rudy Tomjanovich – </strong>Belongs on the same plane as Bum. Hamtrmak claims him, but so do we.

Photo: Rex C. Curry/ Chron file

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<strong>Billy Wagner – </strong> Enter Sandman, exit opposing hitters. The Astros’ heat-seeking closer (1995-2003) holds the franchise record for saves (225) and was as quick with a quip as with a fastball. less

<strong>Billy Wagner – </strong> Enter Sandman, exit opposing hitters. The Astros’ heat-seeking closer (1995-2003) holds the franchise record for saves (225) and was as quick with a quip as with a ... more

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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<strong>Andre Ware –</strong> The Dickinson native ran and shot his way to a Heisman Trophy, the first awarded to a black quarterback. Things didn't go so well in for him in the NFL, but today he's a fine analyst on the Texans' broadcasts. less

<strong>Andre Ware –</strong> The Dickinson native ran and shot his way to a Heisman Trophy, the first awarded to a black quarterback. Things didn't go so well in for him in the NFL, but today he's a fine ... more

Photo: Chronicle file

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<strong>Wilson Whitley –</strong> Mr. Cougar, he was front and center in the D-line when UH entered the SWC, then conquered same. RIP, big fella.

<strong>Wilson Whitley –</strong> Mr. Cougar, he was front and center in the D-line when UH entered the SWC, then conquered same. RIP, big fella.

Photo: Bela Ugrin/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Jimmy Wynn – </strong> Playing in the cavernous Astrodome, the diminutive “Toy Cannon” blasted 223 homers in a Houston uniform (1963-73) and remains a cornerstone of the Astros’ outreach efforts for inner-city youth. less

<strong>Jimmy Wynn – </strong> Playing in the cavernous Astrodome, the diminutive “Toy Cannon” blasted 223 homers in a Houston uniform (1963-73) and remains a cornerstone of the Astros’ outreach ... more

Photo: Bill Clough/ Chronicle file

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<strong>Bill Yeoman –</strong> The father of the Veer offense is Houston royalty. No other way to say it.

<strong>Bill Yeoman –</strong> The father of the Veer offense is Houston royalty. No other way to say it.

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<strong>Vince Young –</strong> The pride of Madison High (and former UT star) made himself so popular the city didn’t even seem to mind him beating up on the Texans, which he did regularly as a Titan. less

<strong>Vince Young –</strong> The pride of Madison High (and former UT star) made himself so popular the city didn’t even seem to mind him beating up on the Texans, which he did regularly as a ... more